4 days ago
More than just a game: Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA Qatar League matches empower local youth
Tribune News Network
Doha
The second season of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League has come to a thrilling close, helping students from across the country to grow their basketball skills while building key skills and values such as teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and resilience.
This year's league—organised by Qatar Foundation (QF) in collaboration with the NBA, and supported by the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF)—featured 68 teams, each representing an NBA team, across four categories and welcomed more than 1,000 students, doubling participation from its first season.
The U12 Girls title was claimed by the Qatar Basketball Federation (Philadelphia 76ers), with Pro Sports (Brooklyn Nets), finishing in second place. In the U12 Boys category, the Movement Camp (Minnesota Timberwolves), were crowned champions, while QF Awsaj (Indiana Pacers) took second place.
The U14 Girls champions were the Qatar Basketball Federation (San Antonio Spurs), with QF Awsaj (Minnesota Timberwolves) securing second. In the U14 Boys division, the Qatar Basketball Federation (Dallas Mavericks) claimed the title, with Evolution Sports (Orlando Magic) taking home second place.
All basketball action took place across two venues: QF's Multaqa (Education City Student Centre) and the QBF.
Kholoud M. Al-Ali, executive director of Community Engagement and Programming at Qatar Foundation Communication Initiatives, said: 'The growth of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League this year has been truly inspiring, with participation more than doubling since last season. This reflects the increasing passion for basketball among our youth.
'Every match has showcased not only excitement and teamwork, but also a deep love for the game. Seeing the enthusiasm and dedication of these young athletes is a powerful reminder of how sport can unite communities and inspire future generations.
'At Qatar Foundation, our commitment to youth development extends beyond the realm of sport – through every game and every play, we strive to empower young people. Bringing the league back to Education City through this partnership for a second year is more than a milestone – it is an opportunity to build character, instil values, and cultivate leaders. We are not just shaping athletes; we are shaping the future of Qatar and the wider region, inspiring a generation to drive meaningful, lasting change.'
Mohammed Saad A A Al-Meghaiseeb, president, Qatar Basketball Federation, said: 'One year ago, I made a promise as President of Qatar Basketball Federation, that the second season of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League would be even better. We worked hard with Qatar Foundation, and we delivered a great event.
'QBF and Qatar Foundation are focusing to develop the game of basketball in the country. The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Qatar League gave the chance to young boys and girls to compete, play, enjoy the most beautiful game, and develop their skills.
'Qatar will host the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027, and we firmly believe that with programs like the Jr. NBA, we can bring more young people to basketball.
'Together with Qatar Foundation, we promise that the next year will be even more successful. Congratulations to all the participants, players, and their families.'
Maryam Hamad M A Al-Qahtani is a student at Tariq Bin Ziad School, part of QF's Pre-University Education, who plays for the Qatar Basketball Federation.'I started playing basketball about a year ago through my school team,' she said. 'From the very first moment, I felt something special about the game. The energy, the challenge, the movement, and the team spirit.
'What I love most about basketball is the teamwork. Every player has a role, and every pass is built on trust and understanding. It's a sport that teaches patience, discipline, and quick decision-making, all of which help me grow, both on and off the court.
'The best part of playing in the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA League was gaining experience every match, every training session helped me improve. But the moment I'll never forget was the feeling of winning an important game and sharing that victory with my coach, Rana, who played a big role in supporting me and helping me grow throughout the tournament.
'I've learned that confidence and discipline are just as important as talent. Every game was a chance to learn something new. Mistakes are not failures – they're lessons.''
